Optical connectors with reversible polarity and method of use

ABSTRACT

Reversible polarity fiber optic connectors are provided having housings at least partially surrounding first and second optical ferrules with walls above and beneath the ferrules. Positioning removable elements such as latches, removable arms, or push-pull tabs on the first wall above the ferrules yields fiber optic connectors with a first polarity type, and positioning the removable elements on the second wall beneath the ferrules yields fiber optic connectors with a second, opposite polarity type. Various engagement mechanisms are provided on either the connector housing walls or on the removable elements, or both, to assist in affixing the removable element to the connector housing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of the U.S. application Ser.No. 16/297,607 filed on Mar. 9, 2019, titled “OPTICAL CONNECTORS WITHREVERSIBLE POLARITY AND METHOD OF USE”, which is a Continuation ofPCT/US18/16049 filed on Jan. 30, 2018, titled “Optical Connectors withReversible Polarity”, which claims priorities to U.S. Provisional PatentApplications No. 62/452,147 filed Jan. 30, 2017, No. 62/457,150 filedFeb. 9, 2017, No. 62/463,898 filed Feb. 27, 2017, No. 62/463,901 filedFeb. 27, 2017, No. 62/485,042 filed Apr. 13, 2017, No. 62/546,920, filedAug. 17, 2017, and No. 62/581,961 filed Nov. 6, 2017; the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally optical connectors withreversible polarity.

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of the Internet has led to unprecedented growth incommunication networks. Consumer demand for service and increasedcompetition has caused network providers to continuously find ways toimprove quality of service while reducing cost.

Certain solutions have included deployment of high-density interconnectpanels. High-density interconnect panels may be designed to consolidatethe increasing volume of interconnections necessary to support thefast-growing networks into a compacted form factor, thereby increasingquality of service and decreasing costs such as floor space and supportoverhead. However, room for improvement in the area of data centers,specifically as it relates to fiber optic connections, still exists. Forexample, manufacturers of connectors are always looking to reduce thesize of the devices, while increasing ease of deployment, robustness,and modifiability after deployment. In particular, more opticalconnectors may need to be accommodated in the same footprint previouslyused for a smaller number of connectors in order to provide backwardcompatibility with existing data center equipment. For example, onecurrent footprint is known as the small form-factor pluggable footprint(SFP). This footprint currently accommodates two LC-type ferrule opticalconnections. However, it may be desirable to accommodate four opticalconnections (two duplex connections of transmit/receive) within the samefootprint. Another current footprint is the quad small form-factorpluggable (QSFP) footprint. This footprint currently accommodates fourLC-type ferrule optical connections. However, it may be desirable toaccommodate eight optical connections of LC-type ferrules (four duplexconnections of transmit/receive) within the same footprint.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks,numerous interconnections between mating connectors may be compactedinto high-density panels. Panel and connector producers may optimize forsuch high densities by shrinking the connector size and/or the spacingbetween adjacent connectors on the panel. While both approaches may beeffective to increase the panel connector density, shrinking theconnector size and/or spacing may also increase the support cost anddiminish the quality of service.

In a high-density panel configuration, adjacent connectors and cableassemblies may obstruct access to the individual release mechanisms.Such physical obstructions may impede the ability of an operator tominimize the stresses applied to the cables and the connectors. Forexample, these stresses may be applied when the user reaches into adense group of connectors and pushes aside surrounding optical fibersand connectors to access an individual connector release mechanism withhis/her thumb and forefinger. Overstressing the cables and connectorsmay produce latent defects, compromise the integrity and/or reliabilityof the terminations, and potentially cause serious disruptions tonetwork performance.

Accordingly, there is a need for smaller fiber optic connectors thatwill meet the needs of future developments in smaller SFPs and arereconfigurable for flexible deployment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a reversible polarityfiber optic connector including at least first and second opticalferrules and a connector housing at least partially surrounding thefirst and second optical ferrules. The housing has a first exterior wallpositioned above the first and second optical ferrules and a secondexterior wall positioned beneath the first and second optical ferrules.A latch coupling is positioned on each of the first and second exteriorwalls of the housing. A removable latch may engage either the first orsecond exterior wall latch coupling on the connector housing.Positioning the removable latch on the first exterior wall yields afiber optic connector with a first polarity and positioning theremovable latch on the second exterior wall yields a fiber opticconnector with a second, opposite polarity.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a reversible polarityfiber optic connector with exchangeable arms for changing connectortype. Thus, a common connector body may be formed into differentconnector types. The connector includes at least first and secondoptical ferrules and a common connector housing at least partiallysurrounding the first and second optical ferrules. The housing has afirst exterior wall positioned above the first and second opticalferrules and a second exterior wall positioned beneath the first andsecond optical ferrules. A coupling surface is positioned on each of thefirst and second exterior walls of the common connector housing. Tocreate a connector, a removable arm engages either the first or secondexterior wall coupling surface; the removable arm includes either alatch or a latch recess depending upon the type of optical connector tobe formed. Further, positioning the removable arm on the first exteriorwall of the connector housing yields a fiber optic connector with afirst polarity and positioning the removable arm on the second exteriorsurface of the housing yields a fiber optic connector with a second,opposite polarity.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a reversible polarityfiber optic connector with a push-pull tab. The connector includes atleast first and second optical ferrules and has a connector housing atleast partially surrounding the first and second optical ferrules. Afirst exterior wall is positioned above the first and second opticalferrules and a second exterior wall is positioned beneath the first andsecond optical ferrules. A first aperture is in the first exterior wallof the housing and a second aperture is in the second exterior wall ofthe housing. A removable push-pull tab includes a protrusion forpositioning within either of the first or second apertures in the firstand second exterior walls, respectively, of the connector housing.Positioning the removable push-pull tab with its protrusion within thefirst aperture yields a fiber optic connector with a first polarity andpositioning the removable push-pull tab with its protrusion within thesecond aperture yields a fiber optic connector with a second, oppositepolarity.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a reversiblepolarity fiber optic connector including at least first and secondoptical ferrules and a connector housing at least partially surroundingthe first and second optical ferrules. A first exterior wall ispositioned above the first and second optical ferrules and a secondexterior wall is positioned beneath the first and second opticalferrules. A removable push-pull tab is provided. A first push-pull tabretainer is positioned on the first exterior wall and a second push-pulltab retainer is positioned on the second exterior wall. Positioning theremovable push-pull tab in the retainer on the first exterior wall ofthe connector housing yields a fiber optic connector with a firstpolarity and positioning the removable push-pull tab in the retainer onthe second exterior wall of the housing yields a fiber optic connectorwith a second, opposite polarity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a reversible polarityfiber optic connector according to some aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 1B is a side view of the reversible polarity fiber optic connectorof FIG. 3A with the removable latch being removed from the connectorhousing;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2B is an exploded view of a step in the process of changing thepolarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is an exploded view of a next step in the process of changingthe polarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG.2A;

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the fiber optic connector of FIG. 1Awith its polarity reversed;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a reversible polarityfiber optic connector with a pull tab according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the polarity of the reversible polarityfiber optic connector of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4B is an exploded view of a step in the process of changing thepolarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C.1 is an exploded view of positioning the latch in the process ofchanging the polarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connectorof FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C.2 is an exploded view of attaching the removed components ofFIG. 4B in the process of changing the polarity of the reversiblepolarity fiber optic connector of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4D is a perspective view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 4A with its polarity reversed;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a reversiblepolarity fiber optic connector with a pull tab according to aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 5B is an exploded view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the polarity of the fiber opticconnector of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6B is an exploded view of a step in the process of changing thepolarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6C is an exploded view of a next step in the process of changingthe polarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG.6A;

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 6A with its polarity reversed;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a common connector housing of areversible polarity fiber optic connector with exchangeable arms forchanging connector type in an embodiment according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 7B is the front view of the common connector housing of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is the top view of the common connector housing of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7D is the side view of the common connector housing of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A.1 shows how the common connector housing of FIG. 7A is used tocreate a latch-type connector;

FIG. 8A.2 is an exploded view of FIG. 8A.1;

FIG. 8B.1 shows how the common connector housing of FIG. 7A is used tocreate a recess-type connector;

FIG. 8B.2 is an exploded view of FIG. 8B.1;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of FIG. 8A.1 of the polarity of thelatch-type fiber optic connector of FIG. 8A.1;

FIG. 9B is an exploded view of a step in the process of changing thepolarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG. 8A.1;

FIG. 9C is an exploded view of a next step in the process of changingthe polarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG.8A.1;

FIG. 9D is a perspective view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 8A.1 with its polarity reversed;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of FIG. 8B.1 of the polarity of therecess-type fiber optic connector of FIG. 8B.1;

FIG. 10B is an exploded view of a step in the process of changing thepolarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG. 8B.1;

FIG. 10C is an exploded view of a next step in the process of changingthe polarity of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector of FIG.8B.1;

FIG. 10D is a perspective view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 8B.1 with its polarity reversed;

FIGS. 11A and 11B respectively depict exploded and perspective views ofa reversible polarity optical connector according to a furtherembodiment of the disclosure;

FIGS. 12A-12D depict the operation of the reversible polarity opticalconnector of FIGS. 11A and 11B;

FIGS. 13A-13D depict the process for changing the polarity of theoptical connector of FIGS. 11A and 11B;

FIGS. 14A and 14B respectively depict exploded and perspective views ofa reversible polarity optical connector according to a furtherembodiment of the disclosure;

FIGS. 15A-15D depict the operation of the reversible polarity opticalconnector of FIGS. 14A and 14B;

FIGS. 16A-16D depict the process for changing the polarity of theoptical connector of FIGS. 14A and 14B;

FIGS. 17A-17C respectively depict perspective, partial cross-section,and exploded views of a reversible polarity optical connector accordingto a further embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGS. 18A-18D depict the assembly of the push-pull tab to the connectorbody of the connector of FIGS. 17A-17C;

FIGS. 19A-19B depict the removal of the push-pull tab from the connectorbody using a tool;

FIGS. 20A-20D depict the process for changing the polarity of theoptical connector of FIGS. 17A-17C.

FIGS. 21A-21D depict the process of changing polarity of an opticalconnector according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 22A-22E depict the process for changing the polarity of an opticalconnector according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices andmethods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in thedescription is for the purpose of describing the particular versions orembodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope.

As used in this document, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the”include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as anadmission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are notentitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. Asused in this document, the term “comprising” means “including, but notlimited to.”

The following terms shall have, for the purposes of this application,the respective meanings set forth below.

The connectors of the present disclosure may be configured for fiberoptic transmission or electrical signal transmission. The connector maybe any suitable type now known or later developed, such as, for example,a ferrule connector (FC), a fiber distributed data interface (FDDI)connector, an LC connector, a mechanical transfer (MT) connector, asquare connector (SC) connector, an SC duplex connector, or a straighttip (ST) connector. The connector may generally be defined by aconnector housing. In some embodiments, the housing may incorporate anyor all of the components described herein.

Various embodiments described herein generally provide a remote releasemechanism such that a user can remove cable assembly connectors that areclosely spaced together without damaging surrounding connectors,accidentally disconnecting surrounding connectors, disruptingtransmissions through surrounding connectors, and/or the like. Variousembodiments also provide narrow pitch LC duplex connectors and narrowwidth multi-fiber connectors.

As discussed herein, current connectors may be improved by variousmeans, such as, for example, reducing the footprint, increasing thestructural strength, enabling polarity changes, etc. Various embodimentsdisclosed herein offer improvements over the current state of the art,as will be further discussed below.

In some embodiments, the fiber optic connector may be a narrow pitchduplex LC connector including two LC connectors. In some embodiments,such as that shown, the two LC connectors may comprise a single combinedunit. In alternative embodiments, the LC connectors may be separatemembers, wherein an air gap exists between the two members, or whereinthe two separate members are located adjacent and flush to each other(i.e., no air gap exists). In some embodiments, each of the LCconnectors includes a respective ferrule and a respective extendingmember or modular arm. The connector may have a pitch of 4.8 mm, definedas the axis-to-axis distance between the central axes of the LCconnectors. In other embodiments, the connector pitch may be less thanthat of the pitch of conventional connectors, for example less than 6.25mm and less than about 5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may beabout 4.8 mm or less.

In current designs, if a fiber optic connector, particularly a duplexconnector, needs to have the ferrules rotated or swapped, for example,for exchanging transmit and receive optical fibers, it can be a timeconsuming and difficult process. Generally, if a duplex connector needsto be rotated, current systems require twisting the individual LCconnector tips 180 degrees. However, this process also twists the fibersthat enter the connector tip. Twisting the fiber at any stage of theconnection can cause wear and/or damage to the delicate fibers. Thus,most systems involve an alternative solution, wherein the duplexconnector is partially or completely disassembled in order to access theferrules or fibers and manually relocate them within the duplexconnector. However, swapping ferrules side to side is a delicateoperation. In order to prevent damage to the internal fibers, great caremust be taken. Thus, this operation usually requires specialized toolsand preparation time to perform safely and accurately.

Therefore, embodiments as described herein, allow for easy, quick, andsafe swapping of the left and right side ferrules in a connector. Thus,embodiments discussed herein allow for a change in polarity of theduplex connector without twisting the fibers or performing any complexdisassembly of the duplex connector.

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a fiber optic connector with reversible polarityaccording to one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1A,a reversible polarity fiber optic connector may include first and secondoptical ferrules 110 a and 110 b and a connector housing 120 at leastpartially surrounding the first and second optical ferrules. A removablelatch 130 is depicted in FIG. 1A in its assembled state and in FIG. 1Bremoved from the connector housing 120.

FIG. 1B is a side view of the reversible polarity fiber optic connectorof FIG. 1A with the removable latch 130 being separated from theconnector housing. As shown, the connector housing 120 may have a firstexterior wall 121 a positioned above the first and second opticalferrules and a second exterior wall 121 b positioned beneath the firstand second optical ferrules. A latch coupling 122 is positioned on eachof the first and second exterior walls of the housing. The removablelatch 130 may include a protrusion 131 for engaging the housing latchcoupling 122. In particular, the latch coupling 122 may include angledwalls that interact with slanted edges of the protrusion 131 to preventaccidental disassembly of the latch 130. Although the latch coupling 122is depicted as a recess on the housing accommodating a latch protrusion,these elements may be reversed with the latch including a recess and thehousing including a protrusion. Other mechanical coupling mechanisms maybe used to interconnect the housing and the removable latch. Forexample, an embodiment may involve a coupling system wherein theremovable latch is inserted into a recess in the connector housing andtwisted (e.g., 90°, 180°, etc.) to secure the latch to the recess.Alternative coupling may use a more complex shape. For example, au-shaped recess in the connector housing may engage acooperatively-shaped projection in the latch that is inserted and fedthrough the u-shape until secure. It should thus be understood, that anysystem or method of coupling may be used to attach the removable latchto the connector housing, including various locations (e.g., slidingfrom the front, sides, back, bottom, top, etc.).

FIGS. 2A-2D depict the process for changing the polarity of the fiberoptic connector of FIG. 1A from a first polarity, FIG. 2A to a second,opposite polarity, FIG. 2D. The removable latch 130 may be removed fromthe latch coupling on the first exterior wall of the connector housing,FIG. 2B, positioned adjacent the second exterior wall on beneath theferrules, FIG. 2C, and then coupled with the latch coupling on thesecond exterior wall of the connector housing to yield a connector 100R,FIG. 2D, having the opposite polarity of connector 100. In this manner,transmit and receive optical fibers may be reversed withoutnecessitating any fiber twist or complex repositioning of the opticalferrules.

In typical embodiments, the latch of the connector housing is requiredto be flexible. Thus, when a latch and a connector housing (e.g., duplexconnector) are built as one unified member (as is currently done), thefiber optic connector is built of a similar flexible or less rigidmaterial. Building the connector housing out of a plastic or polymericmaterial, limits the amount of rigidity that it can have. Thus, as fiberoptic connectors continue to reduce in size, the strength of the housinghas been reduced. Therefore, it would be advantageous to build theconnector housing out of a more robust material while still allowing thelatch to remain flexible. In order to accomplish this, in someembodiments according to aspects of the present disclosure, theconnector housing may be manufactured out of a very rigid or strongmaterial (e.g., steel, graphene, carbon, metal alloys, or any materialof suitable properties). Because the connector housing and the removablelatch need only interlock with each other, the removable latch may stillbe made out of a more flexible material. Thus, the removable nature ofthe latch disclosed herein allow for a more robust and secure overalldesign when dealing with the shrinking footprint of fiber opticconnectors.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a reversiblepolarity fiber optic connector 300. As shown, the reversible polarityfiber optic connector may further comprise a pull tab 340 for engaging aremovable latch 330. The pull tab 340 depresses the latch 330 as the tabis pulled in a direction away from the fiber optic ferrules.

FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector of FIG. 3A. As shown, the pull tab 340 may comprise a firstopening 341 and a second opening 344. The first opening 341 isconfigured to allow the connector housing and the removable latch topass through while the second opening is configured to accommodate thetip of the latch. The pull tab may further comprise a first deformableportion 342 and a second deformable portion 344. In operation, the firstdeformable portion 342 cooperates with the second deformable portion 344to depress the removable latch when the pull tab is pulled in adirection away from the ferrules.

FIGS. 4A-4D depict the process for changing the polarity of the fiberoptic connector 300 from a first polarity, FIG. 4A to a second polarity300R, FIG. 4D. The pull tab 340 may be disengaged from the connectorhousing 320 and the removable latch 330 on the first exterior wall ofthe connector housing, FIG. 2B. The removable latch is then detachedfrom the latch coupling on the first exterior wall of the connectorhousing, FIG. 4C.1. Next, the removable latch is engaged with the latchcoupling on the second exterior wall of the connector housing, beneaththe ferrules, FIG. 4C.2. Finally, the pull tab 340 is positionedsurrounding the connector housing and engaging the removable latch tip,resulting in the assembled optical connector 300R having polarityopposite to that of connector 300, FIG. 4D.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are a perspective view and exploded view, respectively,of another embodiment of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector500. The connector 500 includes a connector housing 520, a latch 530,and a pull tab 540. On the first and second exterior walls of connectorhousing 520 are latch couplings that include a groove 522. A recess 521is also provided in the housing. The latch 530 includes a protrusion 531that is received within groove 522. The latch further includes aprojection 532 that is received in the housing between the opticalferrules. The pull tab 540 includes an opening 541 for engaging theremovable latch 530. A front protrusion 542 is configured to depress theremovable latch 530 when the pull tab is pulled in a direction away fromthe ferrule side of the optical connector.

FIGS. 6A-6D depict the process for changing the polarity of the fiberoptic connector 500 from a first polarity, FIG. 6A to a second polarity,FIG. 6D. The pull tab 540 is disengaged from the connector housing andthe removable latch 530 on the first exterior wall of the connectorhousing, FIG. 6B, and the removable latch is decoupled from the latchcoupling on the first exterior wall of the connector housing. Then theremovable latch may be coupled with the latch coupling on the secondexterior wall of the connector housing, beneath the optical ferrules inFIG. 6C, and the pull tab 540 is engaged with the connector housing andthe removable latch on the second exterior wall of the connector housingto create reverse polarity connector 500R, FIG. 6D.

It is of interest within the optical connectivity industry to havemultiple styles of optical connectors for multiple purposes and/ormultiple implementation styles. Thus, in order to more easily provideflexibility, a solution is needed that allows for on-the-fly,in-the-field, or in manufacturing modification of the connector. Thebelow embodiment provides a universal type fiber optic connector whichhas a unique housing design that allows for different latches or arms tobe attached.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a common connector housing 720 of areversible polarity fiber optic connector 700 with exchangeable arms forchanging connector type in an embodiment according to aspects of thepresent disclosure. As shown, the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector may comprise first and second optical ferrules 710 a and 710 band the common connector housing 720 at least partially surrounding thefirst and second optical ferrules.

FIGS. 7B, 7C and 7D are the front view, top view and side view,respectively, of the common connector housing 720. As shown, the commonconnector housing may have a first exterior wall 725 a positioned abovethe first and second optical ferrules and a second exterior wall 725 bpositioned beneath the first and second optical ferrules. The connectorhousing 720 may further have a coupling surface 724 positioned on eachof the first and second exterior walls and include a receiving track 726in the coupling surface.

FIG. 8A.1 shows the common connector housing 720 used to create alatch-type connector 700 and FIG. 8B.1 shows the common connectorhousing 720 used to create a recess-type connector 800. Both ofconnectors 700 and 800 include a removable arm 730 or 830 for engagingeither of the first and second exterior wall coupling surfaces 724 onthe connector housing, FIGS. 8A.2 and 8B.2 respectively. The removablearms 730 and 830 may each respectively include a projection 735 or 835for engaging in the receiving track 726 of the coupling surface 724,FIGS. 8A.2 and 8B.2 respectively. As with the previous embodiments,positioning the removable arm on the first exterior wall of theconnector housing yields a fiber optic connector with a first polarityand positioning the removable arm on the second exterior surface of thehousing yields a fiber optic connector with the opposite polarity.

Still referring to FIGS. 8A.2 and 8B.2 respectively the removable armsmay include either a latch or a recess: removable arm 730 includes alatch 733 while removable arm 830 includes a recess 834. Thus, alatch-type connector 700 is created through assembly of the removablelatch arm to the common connector body 720 as shown in FIG. 8A.1 and arecess-type connector 800 is created through assembly of the removablerecess arm to the common connector body 720 as shown in FIG. 8B.1.

The fiber optic connector may further include a pull tab. When aremovable arm with a latch 730 is positioned on the coupling surface ofthe common connector housing 720 to create a latch-type connector 700,the pull tab 740 is a separate element from the removable arm, FIG.8A.2. When a removable arm includes a recess 830 is positioned on thecoupling surface of the common connector housing 720 to create arecess-type connector 800, the pull tab 840 is integrated with theremovable arm, FIG. 8B.2.

FIGS. 9A-9D depict the process for changing the polarity of thelatch-type fiber optic connector from a first polarity 700, FIG. 9A to asecond polarity 700R, FIG. 9D. The sub-assembly of the removable arm 730and the pull tab 740 may be decoupled from the coupling surface 724 ofthe first exterior wall of the connector housing, FIG. 9B. Then thesub-assembly of the removable arm 730 and the pull tab 740 may becoupled with the coupling surface of the second exterior wall of theconnector housing, FIG. 9C, creating the opposite polarity connector700R.

FIGS. 10A-10C depicts the process for changing the polarity of therecess-type fiber optic connector 800 from a first polarity, FIG. 10A toa second polarity, FIG. 10D. The removable arm 830 with a recess and apull tab as an integral structure may be decoupled from the couplingsurface 724 of the first exterior wall of the connector housing, FIG.10B. Then the removable arm may be coupled with the coupling surface 724of the second exterior wall of the common connector housing 720, FIG.10C to create opposite polarity optical connector 800R, FIG. 10D.

FIGS. 11A and 11B depict a further embodiment 1100 of the reversiblepolarity optical connectors of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG.11A or FIG. 12A, a push-pull tab 1130 may interconnect with either afirst exterior wall 1110 of housing 1105 or with a second exterior wall1115 of housing 1105. Ferrules 1120 and 1125 are at least partiallysurrounded by housing 1105 and may be LC connectors in an embodiment. Asin previous embodiments, the push-pull tab may include a tab recess1145, as shown in FIG. 12A or FIG. 11A. Alternatively, push-pull tab1130 may include a latch (not shown). Various features of the push-pulltab 1130 are provided to assist in affixing the push-pull tab to thefirst exterior wall 1110 or the second exterior wall 1115 of the housing1105. This includes push-pull tab clips 1135 that clip onto the opticalconnector, optionally in a boot region, and protrusion 1140 that fitswithin a first aperture, 1109A, beneath the housing exterior wall 1110or a second aperture, 1109B, beneath housing exterior wall 1115 (to bediscussed in more detail below), and projection 1131 for inserting intothe housing between ferrules 1120 and 1125. Each of these features isfully reversible such that the push-pull tab is easily removed andrepositioned on the opposite exterior wall to change polarity of theconnector.

As best seen in FIGS. 12B and 12D, push-pull tab protrusion 1140 may beinserted into first aperture 1109A of housing 1105 through a firstexterior housing aperture 1107A. Alternatively, in the reverse-polarityconfiguration, the push-pull tab protrusion 1140 may be inserted intosecond housing aperture 1109B through second exterior housing aperture1107B. When the push-pull tab 1130 is moved forward, the protrusionslides within the aperture 1109A or 1109B, as shown in FIG. 12B. Tomaintain the push-pull tab in a forward-biased position, tab positionspring 1150 is provided. During insertion or removal of the protrusion1140, tab position spring 1150 is compressed, depicted in FIG. 12B. Whenthe position spring 1150 is in its relaxed (uncompressed) position,FIGS. 12C and 12D, the protrusion 1140 is slid forward within theaperture 1109A or 1109B.

To change polarity of the optical connector 1100, FIGS. 13A-13D, thepush-pull tab 1130 is removed by withdrawing the protrusion 1140 fromthe housing 1105 through exterior housing aperture 1107A along withdetaching clips 1135 and decoupling projection 1131, thus releasing thepush-pull tab from the first exterior housing wall 1110 (FIG. 13B). Thepush-pull tab is moved toward second exterior housing wall 1115 and theprotrusion 1140 is inserted into aperture 1109B through exterior housingaperture 1107B in FIG. 13C. Projection 1131 is fitted between ferrules1120 and 1125 and clips 1135 are affixed to the connector. The resultantconnector 1100R of 13D is of opposite polarity to the connector 1100 ofFIG. 13A.

Various alternatives to the protrusion 1140 of optical connector 1100may be used in the optical connectors of this disclosure. For example,the protrusion may be provided by the connector housing with receivingelements provided in the push-pull tab. Variations to the shape of theprojection and apertures may be made without affecting the function ofthe reversible-polarity connector.

Another alternative embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 14A and 14B in whicha hook-shaped protrusion 1440 is provided for engagement within theconnector housing. As in the previous embodiment, the push-pull tab 1430includes a tab recess 1445, connector-attachment clips 1435 andprojection 1431 for positioning between ferrules 1420 and 1425. In FIG.14B, the push-pull tab 1430 is positioned on first exterior housing wall1410 and has a first polarity. In this position, the hook-shapedprotrusion 1440 engages a housing projection 1460, held in aforward-biased position by push-pull tab position spring 1465, as seenin FIGS. 15B and 15D. To release the protrusion 1440, push-pull tabposition spring 1465 is compressed in FIG. 15C such that housingprojection 1460 is retracted sufficiently to allow removal of protrusion1440 through the housing 1405, FIG. 15D. FIG. 15A depicts connector withpull tab 1430 fully assembled.

To change polarity of the optical connector 1400 from the first polarityof FIG. 16A, the push-pull tab 1430 is removed by withdrawing theprotrusion 1440 from the housing 1405 through the housing along withdetaching clips 1435 and decoupling projection 1431, thus releasing thepush-pull tab from the first exterior housing wall 1110 (FIG. 16B). Thepush-pull tab is moved toward second exterior housing wall 1415 and theprotrusion 1440 is inserted into the housing 1405. Projection 1431 isfitted between ferrules 1420 and 1425 and clips 1435 are affixed to theconnector in FIG. 16C. The resultant connector 1400R of FIG. 16D is ofopposite polarity to the connector of FIG. 16A.

Protrusions from a push-pull tab may be inserted into a housing viafeatures other than a housing aperture. Such a connector is depicted inFIG. 17 and features a deformable housing region to allow entry of apush-pull tab protrusion during affixing of the push-pull tab to theconnector housing. As seen in FIG. 17A, the connector 1700 includes aconnector housing 1705 which may optionally include a back body housingportion 1709 for connecting with a housing front portion 1707 (FIG.17C). The back body housing portion 1709 includes a deformable region1780, seen in the partial cross-section of FIG. 17B and the perspectiveview of FIG. 17C. The push-pull tab 1730 includes a protrusion 1740 witha projection 1741 extending therefrom.

Turning to FIG. 18A, to affix the push-pull tab to the connectorhousing, the protrusion 1740 penetrates the deformable region 1780 (FIG.18B) causing the deformable region to yield and accept entry of theprotrusion 1740 into the housing. As the projection 1741 enters thehousing as depicted in FIG. 18C, the deformable region 1780 returns toits original position (FIG. 18D), securing the push-pull tab 1730 to theconnector housing.

Removal of the push-pull tab 1730 is depicted in FIGS. 19A and 19B. Aremoval tool 1900, which may be shaped similar to a small screwdriver,depresses deformable region 1780, allowing projection 1741 to slidealong an edge of the deformable region 1780, followed by the protrusion1740, releasing the push-pull tab 1730.

To change polarity of the optical connector 1700 from the first polarityof FIG. 20A, the push-pull tab 1730 is removed in FIG. 20B by using theremoval tool technique depicted in FIGS. 19A and 19B. The push-pull tabis moved toward the second exterior housing wall and the protrusion 1740is inserted into the housing 1705 through the deformable region 1780 inFIG. 20C. The resultant connector 1700R of FIG. 20D is of oppositepolarity to the connector of FIG. 20A.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a retaining member may be providedin the connector housing to retain a push-pull tab. As seen in FIGS.21A-21D, a connector 2100 having a housing 2105 is provided with ahousing front portion 2107 and a back portion 2109. FIG. 21A depicts anassembled connector 2100 with housing 2105. FIG. 21B depicts an explodedview of connector 2100 of FIG. 21A. Push-pull tab 2130 has a receivingsurface 2132, which during use of connector 2100 provides a surface overwhich retainer 2111 can slide across during tab movement. Extending fromthe housing back portion is a retainer 2111 which may include a pair ofretaining clips, as shown, or any other structure configured to retainthe push-pull tab 2130, as shown in FIG. 21B. FIG. 21C depicts connector2100 showing a section view cut given by the arrows and broken line nearthe proximal end of connector 2100. Optionally, when the retainer 2111includes clips, the clips may be hook-shaped as seen in thecross-sectional view of FIG. 21D. As shown in FIG. 21D, receivingsurface 2132 may be a recess with a protrusion along the edge thatengages the hook-shaped edge of the clips.

FIG. 22A through FIG. 22E depicts the operation of polarity change forconnector 2100 of FIG. 21A-FIG. 21D. FIG. 22A depicts connector 2100with pull-push tab clips 2135 (opposing side not shown) engaged aroundconnector. To operate connector 2100, user can move push-pull tab 2130forward or toward front of connector or backward or toward rear ofconnector, and as describe in FIG. 21B above tab moves along connectorreceiving surface 2123. This engages or releases connector 2100 from areceptacle as is known in the art. To change the polarity of connector2100 from the polarity depicted in FIG. 22A to the second, oppositepolarity of FIG. 22E, the retainer 2111 is removed from receivingsurface 2132. Referring to FIG. 22B, lifting push-pull tab 2130 indirection of up-arrow, separates retainer 2111 from receiving surface.As shown in FIG. 22C, push-pull tab clips separate from the connector asthe retainer is removed. Continuing with FIG. 22C, push-pull tab 2130 ismoved to the opposite housing exterior wall in FIG. 22C. FIG. 22Ddepicts receiving surface 2132 engages with the retainer 2111. In FIG.21E the assembled connector 2100R having the opposite polarity to theconnector of FIG. 22A is depicted, fully assembled. Retainer 2111 is incontact with receiving surface 2132, and push-pull tab 2130 is securedto connector body, as shown in FIG. 22E.

In the above detailed description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbolstypically identify similar components, unless context dictatesotherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detaileddescription, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Otherembodiments may be used, and other changes may be made, withoutdeparting from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presentedherein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the presentdisclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in theFigures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designedin a wide variety of different configurations, all of which areexplicitly contemplated herein.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particularembodiments described in this application, which are intended asillustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations canbe made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparentto those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods andapparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to thoseenumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from theforegoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intendedto fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosureis to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along withthe full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It isto be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to belimiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, termsused herein, and especially in the appended claims (for example, bodiesof the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (forexample, the term “including” should be interpreted as “including butnot limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having atleast,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but isnot limited to,” et cetera). While various compositions, methods, anddevices are described in terms of “comprising” various components orsteps (interpreted as meaning “including, but not limited to”), thecompositions, methods, and devices can also “consist essentially of” or“consist of” the various components and steps, and such terminologyshould be interpreted as defining essentially closed-member groups. Itwill be further understood by those within the art that if a specificnumber of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intentwill be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of suchrecitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (for example, “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “atleast one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use ofdefinite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, evenif a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitlyrecited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitationshould be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (for example,the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, meansat least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, inthose instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B,and C, et cetera” is used, in general such a construction is intended inthe sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention(for example, “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” wouldinclude but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, Calone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A,B, and C together, et cetera). In those instances where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, et cetera” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the artwould understand the convention (for example, “a system having at leastone of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that haveA alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplatethe possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood toinclude the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are describedin terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individualmember or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and allpurposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, allranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subrangesand combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easilyrecognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range beingbroken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths,tenths, et cetera As a non-limiting example, each range discussed hereincan be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upperthird, et cetera As will also be understood by one skilled in the artall language such as “up to,” “at least,” and the like include thenumber recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken downinto subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by oneskilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, forexample, a group having 1-3 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2,3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.

Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, oralternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systemsor applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipatedalternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may besubsequently made by those skilled in the art, each of which is alsointended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

1. A fiber optic connector comprising: at least first and second opticalferrules; a connector housing having a longitudinal axis and comprisingan exterior portion at least partially surrounding the first and secondoptical ferrules such that the exterior portion circumscribes a space inwhich each of the first and second optical ferrules are received, theexterior portion comprising a first exterior wall and a second exteriorwall on an opposite side of the space from the first exterior wall; alatch coupling positioned on each of the first and second exterior wallsof the connector housing; a removable latch for engaging either of thefirst and second exterior wall latch couplings on the connector housing,whereby the removable latch couples to the respective latch coupling;wherein each latch coupling comprises a groove extending along the axisand having an open axial end; and wherein the removable latch comprisesa protrusion for being inserted into the open axial end of the groove bymovement relative to the housing along the axis.
 2. The fiber opticconnector of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is movable along thelongitudinal axis in each groove with respect to the connector housing.3. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the removable latchcomprises a base portion and a depressible latch arm connected to thebase portion.
 4. The fiber optic connector of claim 3, wherein thedepressible latch arm has a front end portion connected to the baseportion, a free rear end portion spaced apart from the front end portionalong the axis, and an outward facing longitudinal surface extendingalong the axis from the front end portion to the free rear end portion.5. The fiber optic connector of claim 4, wherein the free end portion ofthe depressible latch arm is configured to be received in an opening ofa receptacle and comprises a rearward facing surface that is configuredto engage the receptacle when received in the opening to inhibit removalof the reversible polarity fiber optic connector from the receptacle. 6.The fiber optic connector of claim 5, wherein the free rear end portionof the depressible latch arm is raised relative to the front end portionand wherein the removable latch is bendable such that the free rear endportion can be depressed toward the base portion to remove the free rearend portion from the opening and unlatch the reversible polarity fiberoptic connector from the receptacle.
 7. The fiber optic connector ofclaim 6, further comprising a remote release including an elongate frontsection configured to extend longitudinally along the connector housingand engage the depressible latch arm and an elongate rear sectionextending rearward from the elongate front section, the elongate frontsection of the remote release being slidably connected to the removablelatch and the connector housing such that the elongate front section canmove rearward relative to removable latch and the connector housing. 8.The fiber optic connector of claim 7, wherein the elongate front sectioncomprises an opening configured to receive the depressible latch arm. 9.The fiber optic connector of claim 8, wherein the elongate front sectioncomprises a front end portion having a rearward facing surface defininga front end of the opening, the rearward facing surface being configuredto oppose the outward facing surface of the depressible latch arm whenthe depressible latch arm is received in the opening.
 10. The fiberoptic connector of claim 9, wherein the free rear end portion of thedepressible latch arm is configured to be raised in relation to thefront end portion of the elongate front section when the depressiblelatch arm is received in the opening.
 11. The fiber optic connector ofclaim 10, wherein the front end portion of the elongate front section isconfigured to slide rearward along the outward facing surface of thedepressible latch arm when the elongate front section moves rearward todepress the depressible latch arm.
 12. The fiber optic connector as setforth in claim 1, wherein the connector housing comprises a single frontbody and a single back body.
 13. The fiber optic connector as set forthin claim 12, further comprising first and second ferrule springsreceived on the first and second optical ferrules, respectively.
 14. Thefiber optic connector as set forth in claim 13, wherein each of thefirst and second optical ferrules comprises a ferrule flange having aforward facing surface and the single front body comprises a transversewall configured to simultaneously engage the forward facing surfaces ofthe first and second optical ferrule flanges.
 15. The fiber opticconnector as set forth in claim 14, wherein the single back body isconfigured to attach to the single front body such that the back bodysimultaneously compresses each of the first and second ferrule springsbetween the back body and the first and second ferrule flanges engagedwith the transverse wall.
 16. The fiber optic connector as set forth inclaim 1, wherein the first and second optical ferrules have a pitch lessthan 6.25 mm.
 17. The reversible polarity fiber optic connector as setforth in claim 1, wherein the first and second optical ferrules have apitch less than 5.25 mm
 18. The fiber optic connector as set forth inclaim 1, wherein the first and second optical ferrules have a pitch ofabout 4.8 mm or less.
 19. A reversible polarity fiber optic connectorcomprising: at least first and second optical ferrules, each of thefirst and second ferrules comprising a ferrule flange; first and secondferrule springs received on the first and second optical ferrules,respectively; a connector housing comprising an exterior portion atleast partially surrounding the first and second optical ferrules suchthat the exterior portion circumscribes a space in which each of thefirst and second optical ferrules are received, the exterior portioncomprising a first exterior wall and a second exterior wall on anopposite side of the space from the first exterior wall, the connectorhousing comprising a single front body and a single back body, thesingle front body comprising a transverse wall configured tosimultaneously engage the ferrule flanges of the first and secondoptical ferrules, the single back body being configured to attach to thesingle front body such that the back body simultaneously compresses eachof the first and second ferrule springs between the back body and thefirst and second ferrule flanges engageable with the transverse wall; alatch coupling positioned on each of the first and second exterior wallsof the housing; a removable latch for engaging either of the first andsecond exterior wall latch couplings on the connector housing; whereinpositioning the removable latch on the first exterior wall of theconnector housing yields a fiber optic connector with a first polarityand positioning the removable latch on the second exterior wall of thehousing yields a fiber optic connector with a second polarity, thesecond polarity being opposite to the first polarity.
 20. A fiber opticconnector comprising: at least first and second optical ferrules; aconnector housing comprising an exterior portion at least partiallysurrounding the first and second optical ferrules such that the exteriorportion circumscribes a space in which each of the first and secondoptical ferrules are received, the exterior portion comprising a firstexterior wall and a second exterior wall on an opposite side of thespace from the first exterior wall; a removable latch configured toselectively and releasably couple to each of the first and secondexterior walls of the housing, the removable latch comprising a baseportion and a depressible latch arm connected to the base portion, thedepressible latch arm having a font end portion connected to the baseportion, a free rear end portion spaced apart from the front end portionalong the axis, and an outward facing longitudinal surface extendingalong the axis from the front end portion to the free rear end portion,the free rear end portion of the latch arm being configured to bereceived in an opening of a receptacle and comprising a rearward facingsurface that is configured to engage the receptacle when received in theopening to inhibit removal of the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector from the receptacle, the free rear end portion of thedepressible latch arm being raised relative to the front end portion,the removable latch being bendable such that the free rear end portioncan be depressed toward the base portion to remove the free rear endportion from the opening and unlatch the reversible polarity fiber opticconnector from the receptacle; and a remote release including anelongate front section configured to extend longitudinally along theconnector housing and engage the depressible latch arm and an elongaterear section extending rearward from the elongate front section, theelongate front section of the remote release being slidably connected tothe removable latch and the connector housing such that the elongatefront section can move rearward relative to removable latch and theconnector housing, the elongate front section comprising an openingconfigured to receive the depressible latch arm, the elongate frontsection comprising a front end portion having a rearward facing surfacedefining a front end of the opening, the rearward facing surface beingconfigured to oppose the outward facing surface of the depressible latcharm when the depressible latch arm is received in the opening; whereinthe free rear end portion of the depressible latch arm is configured tobe raised in relation to the front end portion of the elongate frontsection when the depressible latch arm is received in the opening.wherein the front end portion of the elongate front section isconfigured to slide rearward along the outward facing surface when theelongate front section moves rearward to depress the depressible latcharm.